PokerStars announced that its Mac software is fully functional

Apple MacIntosh internet poker players who have been using the beta version of the new PokerStars Mac platform now have the fully tested final product in play following its launch this week, just in time for the seventh edition of the firm's World Championship of Online Poker .

PokerStars announced that its Mac-compatible software was fully-functional and available for download Friday to applause from many of its players. The 2005 WSOP Main Event champ Joe Hachem said: "This is a great addition for both PokerStars and the poker playing audience. This will allow Mac users to experience the world's largest online poker site without third-party applications. I know a lot of the actors and musicians I coach via PokerStars will appreciate its release – the creative community uses Macs before any other computer."

Online poker star Bertrand "ElKy" Grospellier commented: "PokerStars understands what gamers want. Although PCs are still the top gaming platform, the number of online games for Mac has been growing by leaps and bounds. The community started asking for an acceptable online poker version for Mac, and PokerStars stepped up to deliver it. They didn't rush into a launch, but developed the best software for the platform, in line with Mac user feedback and advice, to ensure users have a positive experience."

Hachem's assessment accurately sums up the general popularity of Mac hardware with enthusiastic and committed users throughout the world. How many of those are represented in PokerStars's claimed 15 million registered players is not known.

Other poker websites that are Mac friendly include Poker Room-Ongame, whilst Party Gaming has a beta project underway. Paradise Poker, Absolute Poker and Sun Poker also offer web-based versions of their software that is compatible with Mac.

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